Choosing a kitten is an important decision, and we understand you may have questions. We’ve compiled answers to the questions we are asked most often. If you need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
About the Breed
What is a British Shorthair?
The British Shorthair is one of the world’s most loved cat breeds, renowned for its plush coat, round face, sturdy build, and affectionate nature. They are calm, loyal companions that fit well into a variety of households.
What is the temperament of a British Shorthair?
British Shorthairs are known for being gentle, easy-going, and independent. They enjoy spending time with their families but are not typically demanding of attention. They are affectionate without being overly clingy.
Are British Shorthairs good family pets?
Absolutely. Their calm and patient nature makes them wonderful companions for families, couples, singles, and retirees alike.
Are British Shorthairs good with children?
Yes. British Shorthairs generally do very well with respectful children who understand how to interact gently with pets.
Do British Shorthairs get along with other pets?
Most British Shorthairs adapt well to other cats and cat-friendly dogs when introductions are managed properly.
Are British Shorthairs lap cats?
Every cat is different, but British Shorthairs often prefer sitting beside you rather than on your lap. They enjoy companionship while maintaining a degree of independence.
Are British Shorthairs hyopoallergenic?
No, British Shorthair cats are not considered hypoallergenic.
However, some allergy sufferers may find they react less to a particular British Shorthair, but British Shorthairs are not considered a hypoallergenic breed and should not be expected to cause fewer allergy symptoms than other cats.:
- They have a dense, plush coat that sheds moderately rather than excessively year-round.
- They are generally calm and may groom themselves less obsessively than some breeds, potentially spreading fewer allergens around the home.
That said, the main cat allergen is Fel d 1, a protein found in a cat’s saliva, skin glands, and dander—not the fur itself. British Shorthairs still produce Fel d 1, so they can trigger allergies.
If you have allergies but want a cat, breeds often considered more allergy-friendly include:
- Siberian
- Balinese
- Russian Blue
- Devon Rex
- Cornish Rex
Keep in mind that no cat breed is truly 100% hypoallergenic. If possible, spend time with an individual cat before adopting, since allergen levels vary from cat to cat—even within the same breed.
Are they vocal cats?
No. British Shorthairs are typically quiet cats and communicate with soft, gentle meows.
What is their personality like?
I often get asked this question, and to be honest, each and everyone is different. And to add to that, the personality they show to me, can be totally different to what you see when you take them home. I believe this is because they are still learning their place in the heirarchy within this home so some personalities become more ‘seen’ and others can blend into the background somewhat in a multi cat environment.
While foundational traits are shaped during the critical socialization window of 4–8 weeks, the breed is known for a slow maturation process where:
3–6 months: Energy peaks, and early signs of their calm, independent nature start to appear alongside teething and playful bursts.
6–12 months: Personality stabilizes significantly, with kittens transitioning from high-energy adolescence to a more steady demeanor.
1–2 Years (Adolescence to Young Adult): Cats in this stage often retain “kittenish” energy and playfulness. Although they reach sexual maturity around 12 months, their bodies are still filling out, and their temperament is still stabilizing. They begin to show more independence but have not yet settled into their final calm demeanor.
3 Years (True Adulthood): This is the critical milestone where the majority of British Shorthairs reach their true adult personality. By this age, the high-energy adolescent phase has typically passed, replaced by the breed’s signature calm, steady, and observant nature. Physically, they have achieved their full muscle definition and “plush” coat texture.
3–5 Years (Full Maturity): Many sources, including breed standards and veterinary profiles, indicate that full maturity—both physically and mentally—is not achieved until somewhere between 3 and 5 years. It is during this final window that they completely settle into the “couch potato” lifestyle they are famous for, with their growth plates fully closed and their weight stabilized.
Purchasing a Furdinkum® Kitten
What is included with my kitten?
Each Furdinkum® British Shorthair kitten goes home with:
- Vaccination record
- Microchip registration details, transferred to you by us
- Desexing certificate
- A detailed folder of what to do when you get home with your kitten including:
- What sort of litter to use
- Cat scratching post suggestions
- What foods to feed and what the kitten is used to
- Pedigree (a certified pedigree will be mailed to you after the litter is registered)
- The 3-3-3 Rule on how long it can take for your cat or kitten to settle in
- Other general information
- Veterinary health check at the time of desexing
- Suggested shopping list
- Kitten packs from Royal Canin & Advance Pet Foods
- Multi pack of toys and a teaser
- 30 days free insurance with Knose Pet Insurance
- Ongoing lifetime breeder support, for help and advice if needed
Package contents may vary slightly depending on the kitten and circumstances.
At what age can my kitten go home?
Our kittens generally leave for their new homes between 12 and 14 weeks of age. This allows adequate time for socialisation, vaccinations, health checks, and development.
Can I choose my kitten?
Yes. We try to help match the right kitten to the right home based on personality (where possible), lifestyle, and preferences. Please keep in mind that kittens cannot be visited until after their first vaccination at around 8 weeks of age. On occassions, kittens can already be sold by this stage by either photos or videos.
Can I visit the kittens?
We welcome genuine enquiries and offer opportunities to meet our kittens, either in person or via video where appropriate. This will depend on the age of the kitten and if it has had its first vaccination. Kittens cannot be visited under 8 weeks of age.
Do you offer transport?
We can arrange interstate or intrastate travel for you, but do not offer a local delivery service. The additional cost of interstate/intrastate travel will be born by the purchaser and the cost will include an airline approved travel crate which you get to keep.
How do I reserve a kitten?
A kitten is considered reserved once a small holding deposit of $200 has been received and confirmed. We dont usually take deposits until we have a kitten for you. These holding deposits are not refundable. We are happy to discuss our reservation process during your enquiry.
Health & Welfare
Are your breeding cats health tested?
Yes. Responsible breeding practices are extremely important to us. Our breeding cats receive appropriate health screening and veterinary care. Our breeding lines are generally DNA tested by Orivet for diseases and traits, including PKD, FALPS, PRA, Dilute, Colour, Blood Type, LH, CP
Are kittens vaccinated before they leave?
Yes. All kittens receive age-appropriate vaccinations before joining their new families. This usually means they have had 2 vaccinations, generally with an F3 vaccine.
Are kittens microchipped?
Yes. All kittens are microchipped before leaving our care. This is a legal requirement.
Have the kittens been wormed?
Yes. Our kittens follow a regular parasite prevention program, including worming treatments appropriate for their age.
Do the kittens receive a veterinary health check?
Yes. Every kitten receives a veterinary examination prior to leaving for its new home, this is usually done at the time of desexing at around 12 weeks of age.
Do you provide a health guarantee?
We stand behind the health of our kittens and provide details of our health guarantee in writing.
Feeding & Care
What should I feed my kitten?
We recommend a premium-quality kitten diet designed to support healthy growth and development. Detailed feeding information will be provided when your kitten goes home.
How often should I feed my kitten?
Young kittens require several small meals throughout the day. Feeding schedules will vary according to age and dietary requirements. Usually 3 or 4 small meals throughout the day.
How much grooming do British Shorthairs need?
Their dense plush coat benefits from weekly brushing, with additional grooming during seasonal coat changes.
Do British Shorthairs shed?
Yes. Like all cats, they shed naturally, although regular brushing helps minimise loose hair around the home.
Are British Shorthairs suitable as indoor cats?
Yes. British Shorthairs thrive as indoor cats and are generally safer when kept indoors or provided with secure outdoor enclosures.
Behaviour & Lifestyle
Are British Shorthairs playful?
Yes. British Shorthairs enjoy toys, interactive games, puzzle feeders, and regular play sessions throughout their lives.
Can British Shorthairs be left alone while I work?
British Shorthairs are generally independent and cope well with owners who work during the day, provided they have enrichment, toys, and companionship.
Will my kitten scratch furniture?
All cats have a natural instinct to scratch. Providing appropriate scratching posts and encouraging their use from an early age helps protect furniture. We have found the bigger and more interesting the scratching post is, the more likely they will leave your furniture alone.
How active are British Shorthairs?
They are moderately active cats. While they enjoy playtime, they are also known for their relaxed and laid-back nature.
Registration & Pedigree
Will my kitten come with pedigree papers?
Yes. Purebred Furdinkum® British Shorthair kittens are registered with the Qld Feline Association and come with an appropriate certified pedigree documentation.
What does pedigree registration mean?
Pedigree registration verifies your kitten’s ancestry and confirms it comes from documented British Shorthair bloodlines that can be traced back for generations.
What is the difference between pet and breeding registration?
Pet registration is intended for companion animals, while breeding registration is generally reserved for approved breeding programs and experienced breeders.
Ongoing Support
Can I contact you after taking my kitten home?
Absolutely. We are committed to providing lifelong support for our kitten families and are always happy to answer questions regarding health, behaviour, nutrition, and care.
What if my circumstances change and I can no longer keep my cat?
We encourage owners to contact us first. Wherever possible, we will assist in finding the best solution for the cat’s welfare.
Why choose a Furdinkum® British Shorthair kitten?
At Furdinkum® British Shorthair, our focus is on raising healthy, well-socialised kittens with excellent temperaments. We are passionate about the breed and committed to providing ongoing support to every family who welcomes one of our kittens into their home.
Still Have Questions?
We are always happy to help.
If you have a question that isn’t covered here, please contact us. We love talking about British Shorthairs and helping families find the perfect feline companion. 🐾
Furdinkum® British Shorthair
“Raising beautiful British Shorthairs with health, temperament, and companionship in mind.”